Any deviation to the normally smooth and coral pink color of the lining of the mouth could be a warning sign of a pathological process or oral cancer.
When you come to Placer Oral & Dental Implant Surgery, Dr. Martin will conduct a complete oral examination. If an oral pathology is suspected, a biopsy may be taken to confirm a diagnosis. A biopsy involves collecting a small sample of the affected tissue, which is then sent off to a pathologist at a lab. The pathologist will share their findings with your oral surgeon, who can then determine the appropriate course of treatment.
When the inside of the mouth, called the oral mucosa, is normal and healthy, it is smooth and coral pink in color. Although there can be many reasons for a change to the oral mucosa, many of which are not serious, any variation to the way your mouth normally looks and feels should be professionally examined by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to rule out a more serious condition.
To ensure you stay on top of your oral health at home, it is a good idea to conduct an oral self-exam once a month. Doing so will enable you to become familiar with the normal look and feel of your mouth and allow any changes to be addressed promptly. When caught early, many oral pathologies are easier to treat.
Although many oral pathologies are harmless, we encourage you to see an oral and maxillofacial surgeon if you notice any unusual changes in or around your mouth. An oral surgeon can identify and treat oral pathologies, as well as rule out more serious conditions, such as oral cancer. Depending on the type of pathology, your oral surgeon will create a customized treatment plan to improve your oral health.
Types of oral pathologies include
It is important to note that the signs and symptoms of an oral pathology can vary from patient to patient and may not have accompanying pain. If you are experiencing any of the following changes, it is strongly encouraged that you call our office for an appointment with Dr. Martin:
Dr. Martin is an experienced oral surgeon who is specially qualified in the identification and treatment of various diseases and conditions of the oral and maxillofacial region. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, Dr. Martin can perform an oral pathology screen at his state-of-the-art practice in Roseville, CA. Please call our office to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Daniel Martin offers a wide range of oral and maxillofacial surgery procedures and will work with you to design a personalized treatment plan. You can schedule your appointment, learn more about our practice, or prepare for your first visit using the buttons below. We look forward to meeting you!
